BONNERS FERRY — After a four-year, pandemic-induced hiatus, the Friends of the Restorium’s annual barbecue was back — and the celebration was on.

Although not as large as in years prior to COVID-19, where as many as 500 community members showed up, on June 25 festivities were lively with community members greeting friends old and new. Families and neighbors quickly filled the covered seating and spilled over onto the lawn with full plates and pies in hand.

Approximately 75 pies of all flavors were baked by local Mennonites, which barbecue-goers happily sampled and bid on.

Kris Schnuerle, FOR volunteer and ticket seller, said many guests also donated to the FOR mission when at the ticket booth by not accepting change back.

“People are so incredibly generous,” she said.

While the event is sponsored by the Friends of the Restorium, it couldn’t happen without the extraordinary extra work and time of the [Restorium] staff,” said Judy Dirks, membership chair and chair of the event.

Dirks said many Restorium staff members were key to the event’s success, particularly head of maintenance Kevin Schnuerle and kitchen manager Rachel Johnson with her crew staff and volunteers.

This year's barbecue attracted an estimated 325 community members for an afternoon of good food, music, silent and live auctions, and great weather, Dirks said.

“Thanks to the exceptional support of this community for our neighbors who call the Restorium ‘home,’ this year's event was the most successful financially to date,” Dirks said. “Our treasurer will provide a complete financial report at the next Friends of the Restorium meeting July 20 at 11 a.m. at the Chic ‘n’ Chop Restaurant.”

She added proceeds raised by the event enables the organization to provide both large and small items for the residents that enhance their quality of life, as stated in FOR mission statement.

“Our goal is to showcase the facility which is known as ‘the jewel of the community’ and show its residents they are a much cared for part of our community,” she said.